I've been looking at different tutorials and websites about video encoding, but I am wondering which method is the easiest or fastest way (while still maintaining quality of course). I have some family guy dvds that I would like to convert.

Clonemobile DVD from Slysoft

Any other suggestions? I guess that since there are so many stickys for different methods of conversion, then they're all good?

Does one method let you utilize all of the 640 x 480 screen for playing video?

Kinda depend on what you mean by fast. Fairuse takes about 10 min of MY time, but the computer takes about 25% longer than the video's playing time to complete the conversion.

  

i use fairuse for encoding - it does take forever, but i start it before i go to bed with the option to turn off pc when done checked. voila, encoded video when i get up.

The other day, I was going 95 on 75 in my 85 and saw GOD in my rear view mirror in the form of a Tennessee state trooper!

Ditto. Let your computer do your work for you while you are asleep or at work/class.